Carmo Convent Lisbon is one of the most unforgettable historic sites in the city: a roofless Gothic church left standing as a visible reminder of the 1755 Lisbon earthquake, with the Carmo Archaeological Museum (MAC) built into the ruins.
It’s right in the heart of Chiado—easy to visit on foot, and only a few minutes from Baixa-Chiado metro.
Quick visitor info (address, official site, metro)
- Address: Largo do Carmo, 1200-092 Lisboa
- Official website: museuarqueologicodocarmo.pt
- Nearest metro: Baixa-Chiado (interchange Blue + Green lines)
- Closed: Sundays, plus Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25
Why Carmo Convent is famous
Carmo’s story is dramatic: the convent complex was founded in 1389 and became one of Lisbon’s great Gothic landmarks—until the 1755 earthquake and fire devastated it. Instead of rebuilding the church roof, Lisbon kept the ruins as a powerful “open-sky monument,” and later the Carmo Archaeological Museum was created on site.
Carmo Convent tickets and opening hours (official)
Opening hours
The museum’s official visitor info lists Monday to Saturday schedules by season, with last entry times:
| Season | Hours | Last entry |
|---|---|---|
| November–April | 10:00–18:00 | 17:40 |
| May–October | 10:00–19:00 | 18:40 |
Closed: Sundays, Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25.
Ticket prices
Official admission prices include:
- Adults: €7
- Students: €5
- Seniors (65+): €5
- Lisboa Card: €5
- Children (0–14): free (must be accompanied by an adult)
What to see inside (ruins + museum highlights)
1) The roofless Gothic nave (the “wow” moment)
Your first view is the open nave and arches—one of the most iconic “Lisbon earthquake” landmarks still visible in the old city.
2) Carmo Archaeological Museum collections
Visit Portugal and Visit Lisboa describe a wide chronological range—from Pre-History to the Middle Ages (and beyond)—including strong medieval themes (religious + heraldic items).
3) A museum born from Lisbon’s heritage rescue work
Visit Lisboa explains the museum was installed in 1864 to store and display important sculptures and items recovered from ruined buildings and rubble (especially after the closure of monastic houses in 1834).
How to get to Carmo Convent (metro, walking routes)
Metro (best option)
Go to Baixa-Chiado—Metro Lisboa confirms it’s a connection station between the Blue and Green lines.
From Baixa-Chiado, it’s a short uphill walk into Chiado/Largo do Carmo.
Train (nice shortcut if you’re nearby)
The nearest train hub for many visitors is Rossio (the historic station area), and it’s walkable to Largo do Carmo.
Santa Justa Lift connection (optional)
The Santa Justa Lift connects Baixa to Largo do Carmo, which can be a fun way to reach the square without climbing.
Best time to visit (photos + comfort)
- Morning: softer light and fewer people
- Late afternoon: beautiful shadows through arches (but remember last entry is strict)
- If it’s hot: Carmo is a great “cool-down stop” between Baixa and Bairro Alto.
Practical tips
- Check the season schedule (hours change) and arrive at least 45–60 minutes before closing.
- Bring a light layer in winter—it’s an open-air ruin, so it can feel cooler than nearby streets.
- Pair it with Chiado: do Carmo + cafés + viewpoints in one compact area.
FAQ: Carmo Convent Lisbon
Is Carmo Convent the same as the Carmo Archaeological Museum?
Today, most visitors enter the ruins as part of the Carmo Archaeological Museum (MAC) experience.
What are the official opening hours?
Mon–Sat: 10:00–18:00 (Nov–Apr) or 10:00–19:00 (May–Oct), with last entry 17:40 / 18:40.
What metro stop should I use?
Baixa-Chiado (Blue + Green lines).
Official links (copy/paste)
Official website: https://www.museuarqueologicodocarmo.pt/
Visitor info (EN): https://www.museuarqueologicodocarmo.pt/info_en.html
Visit Lisboa page: https://www.visitlisboa.com/en/places/carmo-archaeological-museum
Visit Portugal page: https://www.visitportugal.com/en/content/museu-arqueologico-do-carmo
Metro Lisboa — Baixa-Chiado (Blue): https://www.metrolisboa.pt/viajar/baixa-chiado-linha-azul/
Metro Lisboa — Baixa-Chiado (Green): https://www.metrolisboa.pt/viajar/baixa-chiado-linha-verde/
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